Children’s Resources Musical Gala

Celebrating 40 Amazing Years!

As the sun began to set over the elegant Four Seasons Hotel, excitement filled the air as Children’s Resources hosted its 40th Anniversary Musical Gala. A sold-out crowd celebrated 40 years of the school’s accomplishments with a lively cocktail hour featuring an enchanting greeter whose dress span 20 feet long to welcome guests, a fabulous silent auction, five course dinner and an evening of dancing; all to benefit children with special needs.

The night honored Gala Grand Honorees Lynn Girsh, Susan & Les Eisenberg and Peggy & Joe Armaly for their unwavering commitment to the center, outstanding contributions to improve the lives of the children that attend the school and philanthropy. Children’s Resources’ amazing President, Mike Diaz, was cheered on as he was welcomed to the stage to be thanked for his dedication to the children at the school. He then spoke about his year of Presidency and future work to secure a new generation of support. Also recognized were the remarkable past Presidents along with the current President, as Gala Honorees & Co-Chairmen, Peggy Armaly, Les Eisenberg, Susan Eisenberg, Shirley Anderson, Stephen Aramaly, Josephine Baker, Betty Brandt, Mike Hightower, Martha Mishcon, Luisita Pacheco, Hildine Potashnick, Claudine Smurfit, Dan Tasciotti, Jane Tasciotti, Ellie Trotter, Judy Wieselberg and Mike Diaz for their years of leadership and commitment to Children’s Resources and children with special needs. They have been the foundation of our success and essential to our growth.

Emcee for the event and Chairman of the Board Dan Tasciotti thanked guests and foundations including Corporate Grand Sponsor Florida Blue, Carmax Foundation, Kiwanis Club of Miami, Woman’s Relief Association, Peacock Foundation, The Hermanowski Family Foundation and The Tweed Foundation for their unwavering support which has made Children’s Resource Educational Center a model program for children with developmental disabilities.

The most memorable part of the evening was an emotional dedication to Founder and CEO, Peggy Armaly. She was serenated to “Greatest Love of All” and recognized by the staff and Artistic Director, Clay James. Children’s Resources Executive Director, Gigi Del Valle brought Peggy forward amongst many tears in the room to present her with a commemorative pin adorned with a ruby to honor her 40 years of commitment to build one of the most impressive schools for children with special needs.

Guests were also treated to high energy performances from the volunteer singers and dancers of Montclair State University starting with a special rendition of Celebrate, a high impact number from “Get on Your Feet” from Gloria Estefan and closing with “Got So Far To Go” while shooting out streamers and producing colored fog. Guests packed the dance floor with music from the Danny Beck Orchestra. The highlight of the evening was when the attendees took a glimpse into the work that occurs at CRF and the progress of the children with the unveiling of their new school video. The evening continued well into the night with an after party in the 1435 lounge where everyone reminisced about the amazing event with flowing champagne and late night bites. It was a memorable evening for everyone!